The Masters Tournament is always an incredible four days of sport and undoubtedly the highlight of the golfing calendar.
From the opening tee shot to the final putt, it captivates audiences as the finest players in golf compete to get their hands on the coveted Green Jacket. Augusta National Golf Club is one of the most stunning locations for a sporting event in the world.
In this blog we are going to look at this fantastic tournament: the history, the course, the winners and a quick look at some of the memorable moments from over the years.
Finally, we’ll let you know how you could be there at the Augusta National to watch the next edition.
The history of the Masters Tournament
The idea for the tournament came from Bobby Jones – a former golfer that wanted to build a private club with a golf course in his home state of Georgia. Jones sought advice from Clifford Roberts who would go on to become the club’s chairman, while Jones worked with course architect for the design.
Augusta opened in 1932, although the Great Depression had meant there was not enough money for the proposed ladies course or the squash and tennis courts.
To attract crowds and players, the first Masters Tournament was held in 1934, and was won by Horton Smith. In 1949, a Green Jacket was awarded to the winner for the first time. The phrase Amen Corner was coined by Golf Digest in 1958 for the area between the 11th and 13th holes.
During the 60’s and 70’s the tournament was dominated by the ‘Big Three’ – Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus. They did so much to popularise the Masters Tournament. And, in 1980, the late great Seve Ballesteros became the first ever Masters winner from Europe, leading for the entire tournament.
Augusta National Golf Club
Augusta National Golf Club is known all around the world for being immaculate. The attention to detail around the course, from importing pine needles to playing birdsong through strategically placed speakers make it an incredible venue for a golf tournament.
Like most private clubs, the strict nature of Augusta National’s membership policies means that they have tight control over who goes on the course, and what they are allowed to do. This is all geared towards making Augusta National a truly special place.
Who has won the Masters Tournament?
The Masters Tournament is the birthplace of the greats and has been won by most of the truly great golfers. Jack Nicklaus has been Masters champion more times than anyone else with six wins, whilst Tiger Woods sits just behind him with five.
Nick Faldo has won the most out of the European players, with three, while the Spanish duo of Seve Ballesteros and José María Olazábal have won two each.
Memorable Masters Moments
Where to start? How about the 25 year-old Jack Nicklaus scoring a record-breaking 17 under on his way to winning the 1965 Masters Tournament, causing Bobby Jones to comment “He plays a game with which I am not familiar”. Or how about Sandy Lyle’s 7-iron out of the bunker on the 72nd hole in 1988 to become the first, and only, Scotsman to win a Green Jacket?
Even the smallest gestures can become memorable at the Masters – take Hideki Matsuyama’s caddy bowing to the course on the 18th green, before he became the first Japanese male to win any of the major tournaments.
We can’t talk about memorable moments at the Masters Tournament without talking about Tiger. From his commanding first win in 1997 (starting the final round with a 9 shot lead), to his remarkable comeback 22 years later. And then there’s that chip in on the 16th in 2005…
How to get tickets for the Masters
Have you always wanted to go to the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club? We are delighted to be able to offer incredible ticket and hotel packages so you can witness sporting history being made.
Stay at a magnificent hotel and get an official Masters Badge for the first round of the Masters. Transfers are included, while you’ll have access to the Masters Hospitality House with an incredible selection of food, drink and live entertainment.
Oh, and you’ll get to see the best players in the world competing in the greatest golf tournament.
If you are interested in this incredible package, call us now on 0333 2309115 or get in touch with us today and we can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
